The Swiss Open has now advanced to a crucial phase. Participating for the first time here, Stefanos Tsitsipas is all set to be in his quarter-final showdown with Fabio Fognini. Having already played three extra sets than the Greek star, Fognini walks in as a former champion with the history of lifting the trophy back in 2017.

With an existing record of multiple battles against each other, both of them are set to play against each other on clay for the third time. Here’s a detailed analysis of the stats to decide the heavier pick for the upcoming showdown.

Stefanos Tsitsipas vs Fabio Fognini: Preview

Stefanos Tsitsipas

The Greek ATP star has proved to be strong enough on clay this year, with an 18-4 record, and is currently ranked 12 in the ATP. He won a title in Monte-Carlo, defeating Casper Ruud in the final. The 25-year-old also defeated Hamad Medjedovic in straight sets 7-6, 6-3, and wants to continue his winning form in the tournament. Here are some key stats:

• Win-loss record 2024: 31-12 overall, 18-4 on clay.
• Performance on clay (last 10 years): 180-54.
• Service stats against Medjedovic (last match): 11 aces, 3 double faults, 75% first serve points won, 67% second serve points won.
• Match stats against Medjedovic(last match): 73 points scored vs. 68, 36 winners, 1 break (1/4 break points converted).

Stefanos Tsitsipas’ massive serve numbers have a high possibility of making him dominant over Fognini, but the Italian player is not going to lie down against the Greek.

Fabio Fognini

Currently ranked no. 80, Fognini has made it to the quarterfinals after defeating Titouan Droguet and Juan Pablo Varillas. Fognini showed appreciable levels in his last match by making a massive comeback from a set down to win against Varillas. Here are some key stats:

• Win-loss record 2024: 21-16 overall, 14-9 on clay.
• Match stats against Varillas: 102 points scored, 40 winners.
• Service stats against Varillas: 2 aces, 3 double faults, 73% first serve points won, 51% second serve points won.
• Performance against Varillas: Lost serve 4 times, saved 9 break points, broke serve 4 times (4/6 break points converted).

Fognini’s ability to focus during crucial points and his aggressive play will be key as he faces Tsitsipas.

Tsitsipas vs Fognini: Head-to-head

Stefanos Tsitsipas and Fabio Fognini are all set to meet for the fifth time in their careers. Among the recent matches, Tsitsipas leads their head-to-head 4-0, including a 2-0 advantage on clay.

• 2018 Stockholm Open semifinal: Tsitsipas 6-3, 6-2
• 2019 Rome Masters R16: Tsitsipas 6-4, 6-3
• 2021 Indian Wells R32: Tsitsipas 2-6, 6-3, 6-4
• 2022 Monte-Carlo R32: Tsitsipas 6-3, 6-0

Their most recent encounter was in the second round of Monte Carlo in 2022, where Tsitsipas won decisively, 6-3, 6-0. This history gives Tsitsipas an upper hand going into their upcoming match.

Prediction: Tsitsipas to win in straight sets

As per their recent stats, Tsitsipas is the clear favorite in this matchup. The Greek ATP star is one of the best clay court players currently and has also dominated their previous encounters with a 4-0 head-to-head, establishing a clear dominance over the Italian. Being a clay specialist will come in handy for Tsitsipas, who will look to overcome Fognini with his one-handed backhand. 

Fognini, on the other side, may struggle with fatigue as he comes directly from an exhausting three-set victory over Varillas in Gstaad. Despite Fognini’s improvement lately, Tsitsipas’ strong grip on the red dirt suggests he will secure the win. The Greek is serving up a storm, which will be a big disadvantage for Fognini, who has not won more than 33% of his return games this year.

While Tsitsipas has also stumbled on clay this year, his current focus will declare his victory. Furthermore, it is highly likely that Stefanos Tsitsipas will win in straight sets.